Santa Cruz Site 1 Dam, also known as Canada Ancha Floodwater Retarding Structure, is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in Chimayo, New Mexico.
Wind
Humidity
Owned by the local government and designed by USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 56 feet and has a structural height of 62 feet. Completed in 1962, the dam has a storage capacity of 963 acre-feet and a drainage area of 8 square miles, serving the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Canada Ancha river.
Despite its critical role in mitigating flood hazards, Santa Cruz Site 1 Dam has been assessed to be in poor condition with a high hazard potential. The last inspection in 2016 revealed the need for improvements, as the dam's emergency action plan (EAP) and risk management measures were lacking. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, there is a pressing need for regular maintenance and upgrades to ensure the safety and functionality of this important infrastructure. As the dam is regulated by the Office of the State Engineer and subject to state permitting and inspection, ongoing efforts are required to address its structural deficiencies and enhance its overall resilience in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
1032 |
Dam Height |
56 |
River Or Stream |
CANADA ANCHA |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
43 |
Hydraulic Height |
56 |
Drainage Area |
8 |
Nid Storage |
963 |
Structural Height |
62 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
62 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Northlake Campground
|
||
North Lake - Santa Cruz Lake
|
||
Santa Cruz Lake Overlook Campground
|
||
Overlook - Santa Cruz Lake
|
||
Gorham Scout Ranch
|
||
Borrego Mesa
|